New York Fashion Week is not just home to American or New York-based designers. A slew of out of towners flock to the Big Apple to show their creations each September and February, and we found out why from six of this season's participants. You know what they say--if you can make it here...

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I grew up in a cottage on Lake Michigan, just hours from the Canadian border. As a Midwestern girl, I appreciate unassuming, practical clothes. My boots should keep my toes warm and I want to wear the same shirt twice a week, without anyone noticing. This is why I'm a little obsessed with clothing designed by our neighbors to the North. The Canadian brands I love are simple and sophisticated. The outerwear blocks the weather and the under layers are beautiful and basic. Perfect for the cottage or the city: I swear.

Sick of shopping for others already? Want to score something for yourself? Live in New York or Los Angeles? Then you're in luck:
Mackage, the Canadian outerwear brand known for cool coats that don't break the bank, is opening its first US brick-and-mortar store in New York City. To celebrate, they're hosting an opening event tonight as well as a shopping event on Saturday, December 4.
The shopping event will take place at their new store on Mercer Street in SoHo. Customers who spend $150 or more will receive a fancy leather case. (It's a pretty nice gift, we must say.) They'll also get a chance to chat and be fitted by Mackage founders Elisa and Eran.